KMZ File Extension
Google Earth Placemark Format
- File Type kmz
- Developer Google
- Popularity
- Application Google Earth
- Category GIS Files
- Format Zip
What is a KMZ file?
The KMZ extension is related to Google Earth Placemark Format and is classified in the GIS Files category, which contains 247 files.
Google, the developer of the Google Earth Placemark Format (KMZ), has released file format and 34 programs designed to handle them.
KMZ files are supported by Windows, Mac OS and Linux. There are 14 programs available to open a KMZ file, including popular tools like Google Earth, MAPC2MAPC and MacGPS Pro.
MIME types
- application/vnd.google-earth.kmz
File Signature
HEX code: 50 4B 03 04. ASCII code: PK.
Programs that support KMZ files
How to open a KMZ file?
If you are having trouble opening a KMZ file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.
Google Earth, MAPC2MAPC and MacGPS Pro stand out as the preferred programs to manage KMZ files effectively. To get the latest version of Google Earth, open the Google website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle KMZ files via Google Earth.
Set Google Earth as the default KMZ program
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired KMZ file;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
- Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Google Earth. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
Set default programs for Windows
- To get started, right-click your KMZ file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
- In the pop-up window, select the Google Earth application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening KMZ files.
Convert files to and from KMZ
If a KMZ file is difficult to handle, you might try converting it to formats such as DXF, JPEG, OBJ, PDF, DAE or similar, which may be easier to work with.
Be aware that converting a KMZ file may reduce some features, but you can usually revert it to the original format.
With applications like MyGeodata Cloud, you can convert KMZ files offline while keeping the original quality intact.
Convert KMZ to other file formats
Converting Files to KMZ Format
Solve problems with KMZ files
KMZ files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.
How can I determine if my KMZ file is damaged?
KMZ gis files that have become corrupted may display one or more of the following symptoms:
- The file stops responding or freezes in Google Earth or other programs;
- Error notifications appear during file manipulation;
- The file does not respond or shows errors when opening it;
- Unexplained KMZ file size inflation;
- The file exhibits poor performance during editing operations in Blender;
Why does Google Earth quit or crash unexpectedly?
Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of Google Earth crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for Google products.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged KMZ file?
Start a data recovery program and open the damaged KMZ file. Then, choose the "Repair" option from the menu. Wait for the recovery process to finish, allowing automatic repair of damaged gis files.
How to edit a KMZ file?
To make changes to KMZ files, you need specialized software that allows both opening and editing the gis files. Online KMZ editors offer fewer capabilities than applications optimized for Google Earth Placemark Format.
Best KMZ Editor Software in 2026
With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of KMZ editors.
| KMZ Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Photoshop | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.9 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| Blender | Blender Foundation | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.9 out of 5 (34 reviews) |
| SketchUp | Trimble Navigation | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| ArcGIS | Esri | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (40 reviews) |